New Zealand is home to 7 frog species, 4 of which are native and 3 introduced. Learn about these amphibians here.
Most people come to New Zealand to experience the amazing natural landscapes that the country has to offer. They may also try to see some of the iconic birds, such as kiwi, kea, or kereru. Little do they know that the land of the long white cloud is home to 7 species of frogs. The four native species are rare, but very unique and unlike other frogs. Now 3 introduced species can also be seen throughout the country if you look for them.
New Zealand’s 7 Frog Species
Native Frogs
Archey’s Frog – This, the smallest native frog, is nocturnal and can only be found on the North Island in the Coromandel and southwest Waikato.
Hochstetter’s Frog – This is the only native frog that is semi-aquatic, living near water. This nocturnal frog can be found only on the North Island from central up to northern areas, but not in northland.
Hamilton’s Frog – This, the largest of the native frogs, used to be common, but now only lives in a small area on one offshore island in the Cook Strait.
Maud Island Frog – This nocturnal frog lives only on Maud Island and a couple of other islands in the Marlborough Sound and Zealandia where it has been translocated. It does not have webbed feet and lives on land away from water. Scientists debate whether or not this is actually a unique species or if it’s related to Hamilton’s Frog as a subspecies.
Introduced Frogs
Green and Golden Bell Frog – It was introduced to New Zealand from Australia. This frog is now widespread on the North Island and can be found in farmland, edge of forests, lakes, rivers, and swamps. The green and golden bell frog is active both during the day and night.
Bell frogs, both the southern and green/golden, were introduced to New Zealand in an attempt to control insects. The first ones were introduced in the late 1860s in the Auckland and Christchurch areas. By the 1920s they were common throughout the country.
Southern Bell Frog – This is the most common frog throughout the country. It is active both during the day and night. The souther bell frog can be found in farmland, urban areas, edge of forests, streams, and lakes. It has a green line running down its body from its head down to its tail.
Whistling Frog Or Brown Tree Frog – This frog is common across the South Island and up to the central part of the North Island. It is nocturnal and can be found in moist habitats. Introduced from Tasmania to Greymouth in 1875 and to Manawatu on the North Island in 1948. Has loud, cricket like calls.